Question 1

What is the "Old Market Vendor Aggressive Upsell" scam in Sharm El Sheikh?

Accepted Answer

Vendors in the Sharm Old Market use extremely aggressive tactics to drag tourists physically into shops, block exits, and refuse to let tourists leave without making a purchase. Prolonged haranguing and guilt-tripping are common. Walk purposefully and avoid making eye contact with vendors outside shops. A clear, firm "no thank you" repeated calmly is usually effective. You are never obligated to enter or remain in any shop.

Question 2

What is the "Papyrus and Souvenir Shop Fake Certificates" scam in Sharm El Sheikh?

Accepted Answer

Souvenir shops near tourist areas sell papyrus, alabaster, and other supposed traditional crafts accompanied by fake certificates of authenticity and inflated claimed valuations. The items are mass-produced in factories and worth a fraction of the asking price. Buy souvenirs at fixed-price government souvenir shops where prices are marked and non-negotiable. If bargaining in markets, treat all certificates of authenticity with skepticism and negotiate prices down to 20–30% of the initial asking price.

Question 3

What is the "Fake Branded Goods in Resort Shops" scam in Sharm El Sheikh?

Accepted Answer

Shops in and around the resort areas sell counterfeit sunglasses, watches, and clothing with convincing branding. Shop owners claim items are genuine factory overruns. Prices seem like great deals but the goods are worthless imitations. If you want genuine branded goods, purchase from authorized retailers at home or in duty-free. Treat all bargain designer items in resort markets as counterfeit. Be aware that many countries confiscate fakes at customs.

Other Tourist Scams in Sharm El Sheikh

Old Market Vendor Aggressive Upsell

Papyrus and Souvenir Shop Fake Certificates

Fake Branded Goods in Resort Shops

Experienced a scam here?